Julian grew up riding a bicycle into neighbouring counties and then countries. In his mid twenties, having cycled a half dozen times across Europe to his second nation of Turkey, he broke a world record for a circumnavigation by bicycle – riding 18,049 miles through 20 countries in 169 days. He has won the UK’s Dolman travel writing award, for an account of a hitchhiked journey through middle America, and he has travelled by boat to remote islands in Asia, chronicling a world and people at the edge of modernity. Julian combines a background in political science to create a critically acclaimed travel writing style – politics at roadsides. In this way, and in writing and talks, he uses human stories and the perspective of travel to document global issues for a broad audience.

Books

Julian has written a number of books and is always working on the next one. While they are all available online, the best place to get them will always be your local bookshop. Click the images below for more information on each title.

Speaking and Workshops

Drawing on lessons from the open road, Julian has delivered motivational talks and workshops on issues ranging from global citizenship to travel writing.

‘We were thrilled to welcome someone with Julian’s passion for humanity, his curiosity, and his ability to translate huge concepts into humble, digestible tales. Everyone left inspired to do more and aim higher.’

Google

‘The stories from Julian’s journeys around the world offer a unique perspective, he communicates big ideas in a way that is powerful and relatable. The team loved it and came away inspired.’

Moving Brands, London

‘Excellent combination of inspirational guest speaker and solidly educational workshops delivered to teens from over 100 nationalities. The students really bonded over the subjects discussed and were full of questions afterwards.’

Oxford College International Programme

‘As well as being an entertaining and enlightening speaker, Julian is a meticulous, humane writer who manages to see and note those revealing details in life that most of us just push aside in favour of “wow look at that”.’

Cycling UK, Scotland

‘We cannot imagine someone better to represent our company values of multilingualism, lifelong learning, and connecting people through languages.’

telc, Frankfurt

‘We wanted to inspire attendees with a story of what is possible with few resources, unbridled passion and a bit of grit. Julian’s talk delivered in spades.’

Cooperative Futures

‘Julian delighted, informed and challenged our audience.’

YouTube

‘Students really enjoyed learning about Julian’s writing and writing process and were keen to learn more of his travels and future projects. We will certainly be inviting him back in future.’